Johnson & Wales University Charlotte Expands Academic Offerings

The university is evolving to meet growing employer and student needs in the region.

Mar. 18, 2026 at 10:00am

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Johnson & Wales University's Charlotte campus has been expanding its academic footprint beyond its well-known culinary programs, responding to workforce demands and shifting trends across higher education. The university has launched new programs in nursing and hospitality management, while also focusing on affordability and career-driven pathways to meet the needs of today's students.

Why it matters

As data shows students desire more flexible and career-focused programs while balancing work and life responsibilities, JWU Charlotte has been adapting its offerings to align with these changing needs. The university's innovative approach, including a new three-year hospitality management degree, positions it to better serve the Charlotte region's workforce and educational demands.

The details

JWU Charlotte has broadened its academic portfolio beyond culinary arts, adding programs in nursing and the sciences. This fall, the university is launching a three-year, in-person bachelor's degree in hospitality management, the first of its kind in the Southeast. The university has also focused on affordability, with the JWU Pledge offering eligible families grant and scholarship packages to cover up to 100% of tuition.

  • JWU Charlotte has served the Charlotte region since 2004.
  • The university enrolled nearly 1,300 new students for the 2025-2026 academic year, its highest level since 2020.
  • JWU Charlotte is rolling out the new three-year hospitality management degree program this fall.

The players

Johnson & Wales University

A private university known for its culinary programs that has been expanding its academic offerings in Charlotte to meet evolving student and workforce needs.

Richard Mathieu

The president of JWU Charlotte, who has led the university's efforts to diversify its academic portfolio and enhance affordability.

Sunil Atreya

The chair of the College of Hospitality and Business at the JWU Charlotte campus, overseeing the development of career-focused programs.

John Billinis

A senior at JWU Charlotte majoring in corporate accounting and financial analysis, who serves as the student body president and tennis team captain.

Dawn Lopez

An associate professor of accounting and finance at JWU Charlotte, known for her personalized instruction and connection with students.

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What they’re saying

“We have launched a nursing program that is doing very well [and] are preparing students for all kinds of careers in the sciences. I'm very excited for the leadership team we have here, we've worked really hard to tell people about the great things we're doing.”

— Richard Mathieu, President, JWU Charlotte

“The three-year degree marries the two of those together, a faster degree and a highly employable graduate.”

— Richard Mathieu, President, JWU Charlotte

“Johnson & Wales University has been laser-focused on affordability in higher education and focusing on return on investment for careers. We've seen a significant increase and interest in our programs. We have career-focused programs that are affordable with great outcomes for our students.”

— Richard Mathieu, President, JWU Charlotte

“We facilitate connections, which allows students to then go into industry and work while they are in school, to gain the necessary competencies so when they are graduating, they are out there ready to hit the road.”

— Sunil Atreya, Chair, College of Hospitality and Business, JWU Charlotte

“Johnson & Wales has made me the best leader I can be. You're not going to get this everywhere else. Everybody's very different in what they choose to take on as a career, and I think Johnson & Wales embodies that.”

— John Billinis, Senior, JWU Charlotte

What’s next

JWU Charlotte plans to continue expanding its academic offerings and partnerships with the local business community to further align with evolving workforce needs in the Charlotte region.

The takeaway

By diversifying its academic programs, focusing on affordability, and fostering strong industry connections, JWU Charlotte is positioning itself as a leader in meeting the changing educational and career demands of today's students in the Charlotte area.